The Lexus GX is a mid-size luxury SUV that was first introduced back in 2003 and is closely related with its corporate cousin, the Toyota 4Runner. The vehicle is only in its second generation, having been completely redesigned for 2010, so the 2011 Lexus GX gets by with only a few minor changes.

It now has only one engine, a 4.6-liter V-8, though there are two different trim levels: Base and Premium.

Squeezing in between the hulking LX 570 and top-selling RX in Lexus’ tall-riding lineup, the GX is a fully capable off-roader with a powerful V-8 engine and plenty of luxury amenities including power-folding third-row seats.

Starting with the engine, the GX carries the 460 engine designation, which means it’s powered by a 4.6-liter V-8. This engine was a brand new design introduced just last year, coming with an electronic throttle body and low-friction technologies and producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque.

The luxury laden SUV comes with a full-time four-wheel drive system and smooth six-speed automatic transmission. According to Lexus the GX 460 will sprint from 0-60 mph in around 7.8 seconds, and this is similar to what we got even with a couple of friends and all their gear on board. The engine can be a little bit noisy at full tilt.

It should be noted that many of its competitors are getting similar performance from V-6 engines, meaning you don’t have to live with fuel economy of 15/20 mpg city/highway in a SUV of this size and performance.

Key competitors include the Mercedes-Benz ML- and GL-Class, as well as the BMW X5 and Audi Q7, but note, many rivals don’t offer a third-row seating option.

As mentioned, there are two different trim levels offered on the 2011 Lexus GX. In the Premium spec you get an adaptive suspension system with Sport, Normal and Comfort modes. Ride quality is great in all cases, though even the Sport setting can be a little soft.

Safety was a major issue with the Lexus GX 460 when it was introduced last year. Influential automotive magazine Consumer Reports urged customers to avoid buying the SUV because it may rollover in certain situations. However, Lexus immediately issued a recall on the vehicle and installed a software fix for its traction control system.

There are also 10 airbags fitted as standard, as well as an available assortment of camera monitoring systems and active safety features such as Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert and Pre-Collision System.

For all the details on the 2011 Lexus GX 460, including a look a closer look at its styling, performance, quality and safety, check out TheCarConnection for the full review.